Revised 12/27/2024

 

Domestic hardwoods refer to deciduous, flowering trees growing locally in North America, which means they shed their leaves in the winter, as opposed to a needle-bearing softwood conifer (like pine trees). There are more standing trees now in the United States than there were just 100 years ago thanks to responsible forestry. Woodworkers have always prized North American hardwoods for their easy accessibility, low cost and varieties of species available.

 

North American hardwoods vary according to region due to a diverse climate in the United States. Mostly soft woods grow in the Western region of the country. But one hardwood that does grow in the west is Alder. It is prized for its workability and beauty and has become quite popular for cabinet making.

 

In the Northeast, you will find very hardy species such as hard and soft Maple, Cherry and Red Oak. These trees have to be strong enough to tolerate a short growing season, cold winters and low light conditions from shade. This slow growth produces woods with very tight growth rings which are very stable.

 

Throughout the Appalachian region, trees can experience hotter summers and milder winters allowing for a longer growing season. Trees in this region tend to grow larger and produce wider and longer boards when processed. Species growing here include Ash, Hickory, White Oak, Beech, Birch and Walnut.

 

Domestic Hardwoods are Homegrown:

We don’t need to search the globe for renewable and sustainable materials – American hardwoods fit the bill! From Alder and Cherry to the Oaks and Walnut, American hardwoods have been bringing warmth and beauty to the woodworking and building environment for centuries.

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The Selection of Domestic Hardwoods is Great:

Nearly two dozen abundant American species provide plenty of color, grain and pattern. Our hardwood forests offer more choices than any other temperate hardwood forest in the world.

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Our Hardwoods Are Ideal for Healthy Environments:

Domestic hardwoods don’t trap dust, dirt and other allergens. Low-VOC finishes (like those we use) keep hardwoods looking great and performing well.

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Domestic Hardwoods Are a Renewable Resource:

The USDA Forest Service reports that more hardwoods grow than are harvested each year. Since 1953, the volume of hardwoods in American forests has increased by 131%. Supply is increasing, and it is remaining sustainable.

 

Domestic Hardwoods Will Always be Readily Available:

By mirroring natural occurrences, hardwood forestry practices are a long-established form of biomimicry that supports natural regeneration.

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We Incorporate Responsible Harvesting:

In American hardwood forestry, the predominant harvesting method is singletree selection – not clear-cutting. Foresters choose individual trees for harvest based on a complex array of considerations.

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Using Domestic Hardwoods is Energy Efficient:

It takes much less energy to make products from wood than from other materials. Making products from aluminum, glass, plastic, cement or brick can require as much as 126 times more energy than making them from wood.

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Domestic Hardwoods Are Carbon Negative:

Healthy trees reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by removing carbon dioxide, storing carbon and releasing oxygen.

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Waste Not, Want Not:

Domestic hardwood forestry is easy on the environment. Virtually every part of a log is used as lumber or wood by-products, and finished products are re-useable, recyclable and biodegradable.

 

Domestic Hardwoods are the Natural Choice:

American hardwoods are the natural choice for environmentally conscious builders, architects, designers and other woodworkers looking to specify green materials.

 

Domestic hardwoods are renowned for their exceptional durability, natural beauty, and sustainability, making them ideal for a wide variety of applications. From construction and flooring to furniture, cabinetry and other wood products, these woods provide the perfect blend of strength, aesthetic appeal, and longevity.

 

Check out the links below to learn more about each of these domestic hardwoods: